Native Friendship Centre of Montreal facts for kids

The Native Friendship Centre of Montreal (French: Centre d'amitié autochtone de Montréal) is a special place for Indigenous people living in Montreal. It's like a community hub where people can connect, get help, and celebrate their culture.

A Welcoming History

The centre first opened its doors in 1974. Back then, it was a simple drop-in centre on Bishop Street. In 1975, it became an official organization. It moved a couple of times, first to the Côte-des-Neiges area. Then, in 1995, it found its current home at 2001 Saint Laurent Boulevard.

At first, the centre did not get money from the province or city. They thought supporting Status Indians was the federal government's job. However, many Indigenous people helped by the centre do not have this "status."

Over the years, the centre grew to offer more help. In 1987, the Native Woman's Shelter of Montreal was created. In 1990, they held the first Native health conference in Quebec. In 1993, a department was started to help with economic development for urban Indigenous people.

Supporting Culture and Well-being

The Native Friendship Centre respects all spiritual paths. However, it especially supports traditional Indigenous spiritual practices. Visitors are always welcome to join in if they wish.

The centre offers many ways to support well-being. Elders often visit to share wisdom and offer guidance. They lead healing circles and sometimes organize sweat lodge ceremonies. You can also take courses on making drums or other traditional arts and crafts.

The centre displays Native American art by local artists. This helps keep culture and identity strong for those living in the city. They also share newsletters and papers from different communities. This helps people stay connected to their hometowns and Nations across Canada.

What the Centre Does

The main goal of the Native Friendship Centre of Montreal (NFCM) is to improve life for Montreal's urban Indigenous community. It helps connect Indigenous cultures with city life.

Fun Activities and Learning

The centre offers many activities for everyone. These activities help people stay busy and connected. They include social outings like Laser Quest, bowling, and movie trips.

You can also learn new skills. Classes are offered in beadwork, arts and crafts, cooking, and drum making. These classes help pass down important traditions.

Helpful Services

The centre provides many useful services. They offer translation services between Indigenous languages, English, and French. They also have an online calendar of events.

For health needs, they help arrange transportation for medical appointments. This is very helpful for people visiting or new to the city. They also offer legal services on certain days. This helps people with common questions or concerns about the law.

Health and Job Support

The centre runs health workshops and projects. These include programs for diabetes prevention and health awareness. They also help people look for jobs. They offer workshops on job searching and life skills.

Programs for Youth and Adults

The centre has separate calendars for youth and adult programs. These include daily activities and outings for different age groups.

Becoming a member is easy. Once you register, you can access all the great things the centre offers. In 1997, the centre also opened a Head Start child care program. This helps young children get a good start.

How the Centre Works

The NFCM has about 25 staff members. Many volunteers also help out, and their efforts are greatly appreciated. The centre gets most of its money from private donations. It also receives funding from Band and Tribal Councils. Provincial and Federal funding helps support Aboriginal Youth Programs.

Many projects are funded by different organizations. For example, health initiatives receive support. The centre also stands in solidarity with movements that promote peace and safety.

The centre helps many people find a safe place to stay and get support. This is especially true for Inuit people who need help and guidance.

See also

• N'Swakamok Native Friendship Centre, Sudbury